'Aladdin Jr.' will be on stage at Kuss Aug. 8 and 9

“Aladdin Jr.” might be struck by another new and powerful match — the partnership of Marquee Theatre Productions Inc. and On Stage Performing Arts.

Jeffrey D. Wagner

Correspondent

FALL RIVER — Many Disney fans would consider the Jasmine and Aladdin partnership a perfect match.

Many local fans who flock to Kuss Middle School to see “Aladdin Jr.” might be struck by another new and powerful match — the partnership of Marquee Theatre Productions Inc. and On Stage Performing Arts.

The two entities for the first time have joined together and will put together a fun, family-oriented and “Disney-esque” production of the classic love story.

The production is set to hit Kuss Middle School on Aug. 8-9 at 7 p.m. It will call on two directors from both companies — Lindsay Velozo will serve as the director, representing Marquee; meanwhile, Marquee acting veteran Kelsey Parent is working as the On Stage director. Parent reflected that it is fun to be on the other side of a theater spectrum as a director.

In recent interviews, both Parent and Velozo mentioned that this young cast will offer a few surprise twists to this story, including some dance numbers.

“There are a couple of scenes that we have big extravagant things going on,” Velozo said, mentioning the magic carpet and parade scenes as a few of those scenes. “There is a lot of visual stuff the audience should be wowed by.”

Velozo also mentioned that a tap dancing routine should also be a big hit.

She added, “There should be a lot of laughter; it is very Disney-esque; it is fun, lively and colorful.”

Her counterpart seemed to agree that this “Aladdin Jr.” will be unique and fun.

“We have a lot of surprises that they will be very impressed with,” Parent said. “It is fun.”

The oldest cast member is 16, but both Velozo and Parent said the kids have been attentive to instruction.

Both laud the lead 15-year-olds: Adam Turcotte will play Aladdin and Patricia Kinnane will play Jasmine.

“They are very young but vey talented,” Parent said.

Velozo called them amazing in their respective roles.

Velozo also credited On Stage’s Linda Mercer-Botelho for mentoring the directors through the rehearsals and entire process.

The production will also be assisted by Cory David Santos and Roger Botelho will provide the musical direction.

For tickets or more information, call 508-678-7031. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for students and seniors and $10 for children under 10.